A dark cloud hung over the windswept village of Fanore, where the 15-year-old lived before moving to the US last year.

The small community was shocked when they learned of her death on January 14.

"It was very tragic," local councillor Martin Conway said. "The shock and numbness felt by the communities here . . . has been brought to the fore again today with the arrest and charge of the teenagers in Massachusetts. It is on everyone's minds.

"All we can do is pass on our sympathies to Phoebe's family at this difficult time," he added.

Phoebe moved to the States last year with her mother. After her death in January, prayers were offered by former classmates in Clare.